IMPACT OF HURRICANE GUSTAV On FISHERIES OF LOUISIANA

Since the southeastern part of the state was ground zero for hurricane Gustav, it will likely see the greatest fisheries impacts. Fortunately, storm surge was not as high as expected and fish kills from saltwater intrusion should be minor. Fisheries crews are currently on the water conduction an initial damage assessment. Extensive rainwater runoff containing large amounts of organic matter such as leaf litter from practically defoliated trees in the area will cause fish kills during the next several weeks as the organic material decomposes causing low oxygen conditions. As waters practically devoid of oxygen recede, fish will be trapped and unable to flee from the anoxic conditions and die. Fishery resource damage in this area is expected to be heavy and will extend for several weeks. At this time a few fish kills have been reported by the public.

09/08/2008 – Fish kills are being reported throughout the area. Many subdivision lakes are experiencing fish kills.